I hope you read the long post on "AC options" in the slant forum. The Volare brackets will just barely clear the battery (~1/2") in an early A, so could puncture the side if the engine shakes. I cut the corner off for another 1/2" clearance (but ended up making a custom Sanden bracket). Some new cars use much thinner batteries, which might be an option (or trunk-mounted). Re hoses, you can re-rubber them yourself. If you don't have/buy a Master-Cool crimper, you can use Oeticker stepless ear clamps for a slick look. Even screw hose clamps would work, since used on after-market kits of the day, but look ugly. If you do screw, use Breeze smooth clamps.